Residents urge city intervention after Madison Ace tennis programming ends at Thorn Tree

Dozens of residents urged the DeSoto City Council on Aug. 19 to work with Madison Ace Racquet Sports after the program was abruptly shut down at Thorn Tree Golf Club, removing what speakers described as the community’s only organized tennis program.

Speakers said Madison Ace regularly drew more than 200 participants and created both social and economic benefits for DeSoto. “Madison Ace is saving lives, changing lives, and the community is so valuable,” said Dr. Marlene Holmes, a sports social worker who said she has been with Madison Ace since the prior summer. “Tennis nearly adds a decade onto your life,” Holmes told the council, citing mental-health and physical-activity benefits.

Tatiana Williams, who identified herself as speaking on behalf of Madison Ace, said the program…